Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with a dish that’s not only quick to prepare but also bursting with flavor? Look no further than our "Pasta Creations Everyone Wants"! In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a creamy, cheesy delight that will have your family and friends clamoring for seconds. With tender penne pasta, rich alfredo sauce, and vibrant broccoli, this Italian masterpiece is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. Dive into this recipe and discover how easy it is to create a restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 12 oz penne pasta
- 2 cups alfredo sauce
- 1 cup cooked broccoli
- 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 12 oz of penne pasta, 2 cups of alfredo sauce, 1 cup of cooked broccoli, 1/2 cup of grated mozzarella cheese, 1/4 cup of fresh parsley, salt, and pepper.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, add the penne pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually about 11-13 minutes.
- While the pasta cooks, prepare the sauce. In a separate saucepan over medium heat, pour in the 2 cups of alfredo sauce. Stir occasionally to heat through, about 5 minutes. Do not allow it to boil.
- Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the pasta in a colander. Return the drained pasta to the pot.
- Add the warmed alfredo sauce to the pot with the penne. Stir gently to combine, ensuring that all the pasta is coated with the sauce.
- Incorporate the cooked broccoli into the pasta and sauce mixture. If the sauce is too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
- Season the pasta with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well to distribute the seasoning evenly.
- Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the top of the pasta. Cover the pot with a lid for about 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt slightly.
- Once the cheese has melted, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the chopped fresh parsley for a burst of flavor and color.
- Serve the pasta creations hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious Italian dish!
Tips
- Perfect Pasta: Always salt your boiling water generously before adding the penne pasta. This enhances the flavor of the pasta itself, making it taste even better!
- Alfredo Sauce: For a richer flavor, consider using homemade alfredo sauce instead of store-bought. It’s simple to make and can elevate your dish to a whole new level.
- Broccoli Boost: If you want to add more veggies, feel free to toss in some spinach or cherry tomatoes along with the broccoli for extra color and nutrients.
- Cheese Lovers: Don’t hold back on the cheese! For an extra cheesy experience, mix in some Parmesan or fontina cheese along with the mozzarella.
- Make it Ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated gently. Just be sure to add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it thickens in the fridge.
- Garnish for Flair: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of olive oil just before serving can add a delightful kick and presentation.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your pasta with a fresh garden salad or garlic bread for a complete Italian feast that will leave everyone satisfied.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 60mg
